New data shows Speed-Reactive signs and advisory ’20’ speed signs installed by the Council at selected points across the Island are proving effective in slowing down traffic.

One hundred and thirty signs were installed at targeted locations as part of the council’s One Island programme. As well as illustrating the speed of approaching cars or flashing when the limit is being exceeded, the signs are also able to collect data about the speed of passing vehicles.

Using this, traffic experts are able to assess whether the signs are effective in reducing speeds. This data can also help police decide where enforcement should be deployed in order to target drivers who are habitually flouting the speed limit.

However the data currently shows that the signs alone have been effective in reducing speeds wherever they have been erected.

Added to that is manually collected data also shows 20 mph limits introduced outside schools are also reducing the speeds of motorists.

Though some of the reductions brought about by the cameras are relatively small – that should be put into the context. Most pedestrians are killed by when hit by vehicles travelling at 40 mph; at 30mph half are killed but at 20mph, most survive. Similarly, if average speeds increase by just 1mph, collisions can increase by 19%.

Diana Tuson, IW Council cabinet member for safer communities said:

“Not only are the speed signs a regular visual reminder of the need to obey speed limits, they are clearly achieving results in helping making sure people obey those limits in practice as well.

“The signs were put up in areas where speed was identified as an issue so I am particularly pleased they are currently dong their job.
 
”Of course they are not the sole answer to reducing speed and making our roads safer but allied to numerous other initiatives the council undertakes with its partners they are helping us in our efforts to reduce the number of accidents on Island roads.

The speed sings are part of a comprehensive range of road safety initiatives including a massive road refurbishment programme currently being undertaken by the IW Council.